Censorship Quote by John Mortimer
“I suppose that writers should, in a way, feel flattered by the censorship laws. They show a primitive fear and dread at the fearful magic of print.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Censorship, John Mortimer, 1998
Censorship reveals deep-seated fear of the power of printed words, reflecting society’s anxiety about ideas.
In simple terms: Censorship shows fear of powerful ideas.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge fear behind restrictions.
Themes
freedom
fear
print culture
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- journalism
- legal debates
Key Concepts
political control
psychology of fear
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears drive censorship?
- How does fear shape media?
A Different Perspective
Censorship can also protect vulnerable groups.
![“Take sex, for instance.' 'What do you want me to do with it?' 'Try to be serious for a moment. Take the sex life of our father.' [...] Even after a couple of brandies he felt extremely reluctant to discuss sex and his father. 'It's something I'd rather not think about,' he said. 'We all come into…” quote by John Mortimer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/280/john-mortimer-7362_conception_take-sex-for-instance-what-do-you-want-m_4946.jpg)
